Brandy-warmer from Broggi
DON’T BURN YOUR FINGERS!
Winter calls for sipping fine brandy from big-bottomed sniffer glasses and, since the liquid is such a delectable drink (even angels have their share), it is only fitting to enjoy it with stemware that allows you to savour every aroma and flavour your Cognac presents.
Brandy-warmers were popular in the Queen Victoria era when the Cognac served was generally of lower quality and hovering glasses over an open flame helped to rid the liquid of unwanted pungent smells – but today the modern consumer is spoilt with fine examples full of vanilla and toasty notes. Experts therefore warn against the use of open-flame brandy-warmers that can so easily cause these lovely notes to evaporate, filling the room with aromas – instead of your glass. It is therefore wise to proceed with caution when using a brandy-warmer like the one featured here.
The silver frame of this brandy-warmer from Broggi neatly balances a sniffer glass over a small flame that heats the liquid. Just the slightest touch of heat will do – but keep it in position for too long and your drink will be spoilt. It is a striking piece of silversmith craft that does the trick, but taking into account that optimal serving temperature for brandy is 19°C, you might consider the less complex, and 100% free option, which is simply cupping your hands around the bottom of the glass (which in our climate is also, actually, overrated).
The Broggi brandy-warmer (R903) and Peugeot Universels Le Grand Cognac glasses (R169 for a set of two) can be bought from Culinary Equipment Company. Outlets in Cape Town (tel 021 418 0860), Stellenbosch (tel 021 887 7206), Morningside (tel 011 784 6875) and Lanseria, Johannesburg (tel 011 701 2200/3355).
